The United Kingdom has published an updated list of prohibited and restricted items for travellers entering the country in 2026, warning that customs officials will confiscate any banned goods brought across its borders.
The revised guidance, issued under the UK’s border and customs regulations, outlines items that are strictly prohibited as well as those that can only be imported with the required permits or licences.
According to the authorities, the measures are intended to safeguard public health, public safety, the environment and wildlife. Items barred from entry include controlled drugs, offensive weapons such as flick knives, self-defence sprays like pepper spray and CS gas, endangered animal and plant species, rough diamonds, and indecent or obscene materials, including certain books, magazines, films and DVDs.
The government also maintains a ban on personal imports of meat and dairy products from most non-European Union countries to prevent the spread of animal diseases.
In addition to outright bans, officials noted that some items can only be brought into the UK with prior approval. These include firearms, explosives and ammunition, which are subject to strict import controls.
Food and plant products are also regulated, with authorities warning that such items may be denied entry if they are not free from pests and diseases, intended for commercial use, or sourced from outside the European Union.
The guidance further cautions against bringing counterfeit or pirated goods into the country. Customs officials may confiscate items suspected of violating intellectual property rights, while offenders risk prosecution.
UK authorities advise travellers to familiarise themselves with the UK’s customs rules before departure to avoid delays, confiscation of items or possible legal penalties on arrival.
UK customs authorities warned that prohibited items will be seized, while travellers found importing restricted goods without the required documentation may face prosecution.
Here is the list of items travellers cannot bring into the UK in 2026
Prohibited items
Controlled drugs
Offensive weapons, including flick knives
Self-defence sprays, including pepper spray and CS gas
Endangered animal and plant species
Rough diamonds
Indecent or obscene materials, including certain books, magazines, films and DVDs
Personal imports of meat and dairy products from most non-EU countries
Restricted items (special licence required)
Firearms
Explosives
Ammunition
Food and plant products subject to restrictions
Food and plant products may be refused entry if they:
Are not free from pests and diseases
Are intended for commercial rather than personal use
Were not grown in the European Union
Counterfeit and pirated goods
Travellers are also prohibited from bringing goods that infringe intellectual property rights, including:
Pirated copies of films
films
Illegal copies of music
Counterfeit branded products
Other unauthorised copyrighted materials